The Balete Tree

The Balete Tree or the Strangling Ficus Tree with its gnarly, twisted barks is endemic in the Philippines and is the source of all mythical creatures like the Tikbalang, Kapre, Dwende (Dwarves), Diwata (or Faeries), etcetera. These pictures are of the gigantic Balete tree that completely took over the Avocado tree that used to be in its place that is situated just outside our front door. It is both a source of majesty, mystery and unnatural phenomena. Locals say this could be the home of the "Maligno" or a Malevolent or Evil Spirit/Anito that makes one feel its sinister presence when you are simply beside it. It could also be the source of Macoy's sleepless/restless nights when he was living in his bedroom just right beside it. Thank God, he is with his primary family right now hopefully recuperating and no longer here. 

With all the kababalaghans happening in this old Sanville house we used to call home with daddy and mommy (or lolo and lola to Macoy) now gone, and inching its way to becoming completely haunted with one tree after another being possessed by seeds of the Balete aerially planted or sowed by the birds; I am merely waiting for the "White Lady" to appear next.